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<strong>Fast</strong>-food <strong>Industry</strong><br />

Group 01<br />

2278503<br />

4196747<br />

7681247<br />

B025727<br />

B026799<br />

International Marketing<br />

Dr. Essam Ibrahim<br />

05/03/2012


Table of Contents<br />

1. Executive Summary<br />

2. Introduction<br />

3. International Marketing <strong>Analysis</strong><br />

3.1. PESTEL <strong>Analysis</strong> and Environmental Impact Matrix (Macro Environment)<br />

3.2. Porter’s Five Forces – <strong>Fast</strong>-food <strong>Industry</strong><br />

3.3. Identification of Key Players and their Competitive Position<br />

3.3.1. Strategic Groups<br />

4. Key Player – Evaluation of International Activities<br />

4.1. Identification of Key Player<br />

4.2. McDonald’s International Market Entry Modes<br />

4.3. McDonald’s’ International Marketing Mix (7Ps)<br />

4.3.1. Product<br />

4.3.2. Price<br />

4.3.3. Place (International Distribution and Supply Chain)<br />

4.3.4. Promotion<br />

4.3.5. People<br />

4.3.6. Process<br />

4.3.7. Physical Evidence<br />

4.4. International Branding<br />

4.5. McDonald’s Internal and External <strong>Analysis</strong><br />

4.5.1. Internal <strong>Analysis</strong><br />

4.5.2. External <strong>Analysis</strong><br />

4.6. Strategic and Tactical Recommendations for McDonald’s<br />

4.6.1. Short Term (6 months – 1 year)<br />

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4.6.2. Long Term (1 – 5 years)<br />

5. Concluding Statement<br />

6. Appendices<br />

6.1. Appendix 1<br />

6.2. Appendix 2<br />

6.3. Appendix 3<br />

6.4. Appendix 4<br />

6.5. Appendix 5<br />

7. Bibliography<br />

2


1. Executive Summary<br />

This report provides an analysis of the international marketing environment of the global fast-<br />

food industry and evaluates the international marketing activities of McDonald’s, which is<br />

considered a key player.<br />

Firstly, the PESTLE framework is used to analyse external environmental factors influencing<br />

the industry. The Porter’s Five Forces framework is utilised to analyse the competitive rivalry<br />

within the industry, and its attractiveness for potential new entrants. Key players and their<br />

positioning was identified using a strategic-groups model, mapping brand value against<br />

global presence.<br />

Based on the industry analysis, McDonald’s was identified as the market leader and an<br />

examination of their market entry modes was carried out. Their international marketing mix<br />

was evaluated to identify success factors, drawing focus upon international branding,<br />

international distribution, international communications and standardisation vs. adaptation of<br />

the service offering. An internal analysis identified the firm’s strengths and weaknesses<br />

whilst an external analysis considered the opportunities and threats posed to McDonald’s as<br />

market leader.<br />

Finally, short and long term strategic and tactical recommendations were outlined in order to<br />

enhance McDonald’s competitive position within the global fast-food industry. These<br />

recommendations are both realistic and well supported, based upon the evaluation of their<br />

current strategy and activities.<br />

3


2. Introduction<br />

The global fast-food industry is dynamic with a variety of competitors. This report<br />

identifies the current factors influencing the industry before specifically focusing on<br />

McDonald’s Corporation, who is considered as the current global leader. Based on this<br />

analysis, the report identifies several areas for improvement and makes strategic<br />

recommendations for McDonald’s to enhance its position.<br />

4


3. International Marketing <strong>Analysis</strong><br />

3.1. PESTEL <strong>Analysis</strong> and Environmental Impact Matrix (Macro Environment)<br />

The following framework provides an analysis of the external international marketing<br />

environment, relating to the fast-food industry:<br />

Factor Impact of Factor Potential Opportunity or<br />

Political � Government regulation on<br />

labeling/packaging<br />

� Governmental regulations over wage<br />

Economical � Recession of 2008/high<br />

unemployment rate<br />

� U.S. housing market crash/EU<br />

financial crisis<br />

� Domino effect<br />

Threat<br />

Mild threat (-1)<br />

Moderate Opportunity (+2)<br />

Social � Health conscious trends Moderate Threat (-2)<br />

Technological � Social media outlets for consumer<br />

� Increasing comfort levels with<br />

technology<br />

Environmental � Lobbying for environmentally<br />

friendly material<br />

Legal � Advertisement regulations<br />

� Health lawsuits<br />

*These ratings are based on the authors’ subjective judgement<br />

Significant opportunity (+5)<br />

Opportunity (+3)<br />

Major threat (-4)<br />

5


Political<br />

Global fast-food firms must comply with country-specific political requirements, such as<br />

national minimum wage regulations, affecting costs. Hygiene and quality regulations vary<br />

significantly between nations and may influence the quality of products provided by fast-food<br />

outlets (FDA, 2012). Different countries set varying regulations regarding labelling and<br />

packaging. For instance the UK government pressured firms to promote healthy eating, and<br />

several fast-food companies have voluntarily included calorie information on their products<br />

(BBC, 2011).<br />

Economic<br />

Despite the 2008 recession and the resulting decrease in consumer confidence across the<br />

globe, average consumer fast-food spending has increased (The Economist, 2010) due to<br />

convenience and low-cost. Consumers are still looking for the convenience of eating out, but<br />

are drawn to the low prices of fast-food over table-service restaurants (Financial Times,<br />

2009). Many fast-food chains have capitalised upon the recession by introducing new deals in<br />

addition to their already low-priced menus. Between 2005 and 2010, Latin America, Asia<br />

Pacific, Eastern Europe and Russia accounted for 89% of global growth in the fast-food<br />

industry (Passport, 2012).<br />

Social<br />

Increasing consumer awareness about healthy lifestyles has pressured many fast-food players<br />

to offer healthier selections within their menus (BBC, 2011). This includes offering low-<br />

calorie options and salads alongside burgers, and prominently displaying nutritional content.<br />

The fast-food industry has also been heavily criticised for targeting young children by<br />

including toys within children’s meals (New York Times, 2003). Recently in the UK, the<br />

broadcasting of ‘junk food’ adverts during commercial breaks in children’s programmes has<br />

been banned (BBC, 2007), following increasing childhood obesity.<br />

6


Technological<br />

As consumer familiarity with new technology increases, fast-food firms are using channels<br />

such as social media websites to engage with their customers. For example, McDonald’s is<br />

the 9 th most ‘liked’ brand on Facebook (CNBC, 2012) (Appendix 1). Additionally, digital<br />

displays allow outlets to change their menus efficiently, to suit the time of day (NRA, 2012)<br />

and self-service ordering points have increased service speed and reduced labour costs.<br />

Environmental<br />

Environmental lobbyists and governments are pressuring the fast-food firms to become more<br />

‘green’ (Greenpeace, 2012). Rainforests are being destroyed to increase the area of land for<br />

beef production to meet the demand for beef-burgers (Kline, 2007). Recycling is a prominent<br />

global issue and in response, McDonald's adopted recyclable packaging. Increased<br />

environmental awareness among consumers provides firms with a significant opportunity to<br />

position themselves as ‘green’ to garner customer loyalty (National Pollution Prevention<br />

Centre for Higher Education, 1995).<br />

Legal<br />

Global operators must comply with country-specific regulations and legislation. This includes<br />

opening hours, taxation and employment regulations such as the National Minimum Wage<br />

Regulations (1999) in the UK. Firms are often required to meet national food standards such<br />

as the requirements set out by the US <strong>Food</strong> and Drug Administration (FDA). Furthermore,<br />

authorities are becoming increasingly worried about childhood obesity associated with the<br />

industry (WHO, 2012) and have tightened regulations regarding targeting children.<br />

7


3.2. Porter’s Five Forces – <strong>Fast</strong>-food <strong>Industry</strong><br />

This framework identifies the competitive forces affecting the fast-food industry:<br />

THREAT OF NEW ENTRANTS<br />

<strong>Industry</strong> dominated by global chains<br />

with very high brand values<br />

High brand awareness and loyalty<br />

Retaliation from strong incumbent<br />

players<br />

Low initial capital outlay<br />

Low fixed costs<br />

Economies of scale<br />

POWER OF SUPPLIERS<br />

Many undifferentiated<br />

suppliers<br />

<strong>Fast</strong>-food chains have<br />

high purchasing power<br />

due to high volume<br />

COMPETITIVE RIVALRY IN<br />

THE FAST-FOOD INDUSTRY<br />

Fragmented market<br />

Low exit costs<br />

Low margin, high turnover –<br />

drives competition<br />

High brand power<br />

POWER OF BUYERS<br />

High product differentiation<br />

Target many segments<br />

High price sensitivity<br />

THREAT OF SUBSTITUTIONS<br />

Alternative foodservice<br />

options<br />

Ready meals and home<br />

cooking ingredients<br />

Main players quite<br />

differentiated<br />

No switching costs<br />

Convenience is the value<br />

adding component which<br />

is difficult to substitute<br />

8


Threat of New Entrants - Moderate<br />

The industry is dominated by a number of international Quick Service Restaurant (QSR)<br />

chains, including McDonald’s, Burger King, Pizza Hut, KFC and Domino’s (Datamonitor,<br />

2010). These global brands are extremely valuable, boasting strong customer loyalty and<br />

recognition; indicating consistent quality and service. Key players including McDonald’s,<br />

adapt their marketing orientation to suit local cultures and social norms (Datamonitor 2010),<br />

strengthening the brand and avoiding consumer alienation. New players struggle to compete<br />

with incumbent firms, as their brands are unknown and advertising campaigns are expensive.<br />

Established chains have the resources to retaliate aggressively through pricing promotions,<br />

deterring new players from entering the marketplace. New entrants lack economies of scale,<br />

which existing chains have developed over time, and utilise to remain competitive in this<br />

low-margin, high-turnover industry. However, social media websites have evened the playing<br />

field in terms of marketing communications; they allow firms to efficiently communicate<br />

their message inexpensively. Initial capital outlay and fixed costs are low, encouraging new<br />

entrants (Datamonitor, 2012).<br />

Threat of Substitutions – Moderate<br />

Substitutes are readily available: food can be purchased almost anywhere, through<br />

foodservice or retail. However, convenience is the value-adding component of the service<br />

which reduces the threat of substitutes. Consumers can cook at home cheaply, but this lacks<br />

the convenience element which people require nowadays. Ready-meals are therefore a more<br />

substantial threat, competing with fast-food on price as well as convenience (Datamonitor,<br />

2012). If you are ‘on-the-go’ however, without access to a microwave, QSRs are almost<br />

uncontested if you want a hot meal in a short timeframe. With many differentiated players<br />

(Datamonitor, 2012) and varying service offerings, customers can select the best value option.<br />

9


Competitive Rivalry – Strong<br />

Although McDonald’s and Burger King almost hold a duopoly in the ‘burger segment’, the<br />

market as a whole is fragmented with many global chains and independent operators<br />

(Datamonitor, 2012). Competition is primarily cost-based with firms continuously investing<br />

in their production and service processes to undercut competitors. Exit costs are low and<br />

capacity is easily increased through franchising. Branding is the most prevalent weapon for<br />

competing; McDonald’s spent over $650 million on global advertising in 2009 (Datamonitor,<br />

2012).<br />

Power of Buyers – Moderate<br />

Figure 1 shows sales and growth of the top ten fast-food companies (Euromonitor<br />

International, 2012). The market’s competitiveness increases buyer power and customers are<br />

price sensitive (Muhlbacker et al., 1999) with no switching cost between providers. However,<br />

key players attempt to reduce buyer power, offering a product range which caters for the<br />

entire demographic, rather than one specific segment. For example, McDonald’s target<br />

children with ‘Happy Meals’ and professionals with breakfast options and take-away coffee<br />

(McDonald’s, 2012). Firms are increasingly promoting differentiated products: McDonald’s<br />

“Big Mac”, Burger King’s “Whopper” and offers such as Domino’s “Two for Tuesday”<br />

campaign. High brand value and customer loyalty has reduced buyers’ bargaining power. The<br />

2011 ranking of the top 100 brands indicates McDonald’s’ success (Interbrand, 2011).<br />

10


Power of Suppliers – Moderate<br />

Figure 1: Top Ten <strong>Fast</strong>-food<br />

Companies by Growth.<br />

With a competitive global supply chain, supplier power is limited. “17,500 British and Irish<br />

farms that provide us with top-quality ingredients.” (McDonald’s – UK, 2012) These farms<br />

supply Tier 1 suppliers who transform raw materials into food items, ready for McDonald’s<br />

to cook and serve. Due to the number of suppliers in the industry, it is difficult for them to<br />

leverage significant power over fast-food firms.<br />

The supply of soft-drink is dominated by Coca-Cola (McDonald’s and Burger King) and<br />

Pepsi (KFC) due to their global distribution channels. Additionally, Coca-Cola and Pepsi<br />

provide fast-food chains with equipment such as refrigerators and drink dispensers. This<br />

markets their brand and aligns it with fast-food brands, reducing costs for customers, which<br />

would otherwise be passed onto them (SMO, 2011).<br />

11


Global<br />

Brand<br />

Value<br />

(US$)<br />

3.3. Identification of Key Players and their Competitive Position<br />

3.3.1. Strategic Groups<br />

The following framework identifies the key players in the international fast-food<br />

industry and identifies which firms are in the most direct competition with each other:<br />

*These ratings are based on the authors’ subjective judgement<br />

Taco Bell<br />

Wendy’s<br />

Pizza Hut<br />

Domino’s<br />

Burger King<br />

Global Presence<br />

McDonald’s<br />

Subway<br />

Brand value and the chain’s global presence (Appendix 2) are significant indicators of<br />

overall performance. The above strategy-group chart maps the firms’ performance.<br />

Brand value (US$) is plotted against the chain’s global presence, in terms of the<br />

number of outlets worldwide. The strategy-grouping shows that McDonald’s has the<br />

KFC<br />

12


highest global market value and revenue in the industry, despite Subway having more<br />

international outlets.<br />

4. Key Player – Evaluation of International Activities<br />

4.1. Identification of Key Player<br />

Based upon their global presence, market value and revenue, McDonald’s is identified as<br />

the key player in the industry.<br />

4.2. McDonald’s International Market Entry Modes<br />

In 1940, McDonald’s operated only one QSR but today has restaurants at 33,000<br />

locations in 119 countries. McDonald’s utilises a variety of international market entry<br />

modes for rapid expansion: sole ventures, franchising, master franchising and joint<br />

ventures.<br />

15% of McDonald’s branded restaurants are operated as sole ventures. This involves a<br />

significant capital commitment but allows the highest degree of control.<br />

Most restaurants are operated as franchises, allowing rapid expansion without high capital<br />

requirements. Franchising has also allowed McDonald’s to benefit from local knowledge,<br />

demonstrated by the menu differences by country. However, McDonald’s maintains<br />

control over crucial aspects such as the supply chain, marketing mix and staff training.<br />

Master Franchising introduces a third party as a ‘go-between’ to overcome geographical<br />

and cultural barriers. The combination of the master franchisee’s local knowledge and<br />

McDonald’s brand and model has been a successful formula, allowing expansion whilst<br />

maintaining significant control.<br />

McDonald’s has also expanded internationally through joint ventures. Again, this allows<br />

for rapid expansion and utilises the knowledge of firms in closely-linked markets. Since<br />

13


oth firms invest equity in the project, there is a lower financial risk for both parties;<br />

however, many joint ventures end in hostility and conflict due to firms taking advantage<br />

of one another (Brown and Harwood, 2010).<br />

4.3. McDonald’s International Marketing Mix (7Ps)<br />

This framework identifies many of McDonald’s success factors within each business area.<br />

4.3.1. Product<br />

McDonald’s strives to offer a standardised service worldwide (McDonald’s<br />

Corporation, 2012). However, the company is embedded with an ‘entrepreneurial<br />

spirit’ giving franchisees some local control and creativity, providing the service<br />

offering is of a high standard (Appendix 3). Some of the most famous products<br />

including the Fillet o’ Fish, the Egg McMuffin and the Big Mac were created through<br />

franchisee innovation. Franchisees are given autonomy to adapt the products<br />

(Datamonitor, 2010) whilst the corporation maintains a high degree of standardisation<br />

through quality control. The majority of well-known products are usually offered in<br />

all markets unless they do not suit local customs and religion. For instance, Big Macs<br />

are not sold in Indian outlets as the population is primarily Hindu. However, even<br />

‘iconic’ products are adjusted to local taste such as providing spicier food in most<br />

Asian countries, allowing the company to overcome a variety of cross-cultural<br />

barriers (McDonald’s, 2012).<br />

4.3.2. Price<br />

McDonald’s has positioned itself as a fast-food outlet offering low-cost food and<br />

drink. The affordable menu has been adapted worldwide whilst maintaining their core<br />

goal of quality assurance. Ongoing innovation has allowed new pricing strategies such<br />

as the ‘Dollar Menu’ or its equivalent ‘Saver menu’ in the UK (McDonald’s<br />

14


Corporation, 2012). In response to increasing food costs, McDonald’s opted to<br />

increase prices by less than 1%, adopting the change gradually to the menu in order to<br />

retain price-sensitive customers (Lockyer, 2011).<br />

4.3.3. Place (International Distribution and Supply Chain)<br />

Although McDonald’s product offerings differ between countries, they operate a<br />

standardised global supply chain. This lean operation is 100% outsourced with no<br />

back-up system. The chain comprises of two tiers. Tier 2 suppliers are primarily food<br />

producers, whilst Tier 1 suppliers are processors. For example, a Tier 2 potato farm<br />

supplies a Tier 1 processing firm who turn the potatoes into French-fries and potato<br />

wedges. Produce is transported to distribution centres before allocation and delivery<br />

to individual restaurants. The success of the supply chain is attributed primarily to<br />

their commitment to outsourcing non-core activities to expert firms.<br />

McDonald’s supplier terms are rigorous; suppliers are expected to be accountable<br />

until the food is consumed and the end customer is satisfied. Legally-signed contracts<br />

with suppliers are not used; all deals are made on a handshake because they operate a<br />

‘one supplier - one product’ policy and maintain long-term relationships regardless of<br />

the external environmental conditions.<br />

McDonald’s has 30 – 35 stock-keeping units at the supply side, creating a streamlined<br />

operation. Sole distribution partners are responsible for the entire logistics process in<br />

designated geographical areas, whether it be the daily hamburger order, or a<br />

replacement appliance. McDonald’s continuously scrutinises these partners to ensure<br />

they are meeting goals and benchmarks to improve efficiency.<br />

The ‘pull strategy’ allows individual restaurants to place orders with distribution<br />

centres, which then re-issue orders to suppliers who only produce the quantities<br />

ordered. This means suppliers hold little surplus stock, optimising efficiency.<br />

15


The 31Q system forecasts demand accurately, allowing suppliers to plan three years<br />

in advance. Lead-time is critical and this system ensures that demand is always<br />

catered for.<br />

Hazard <strong>Analysis</strong> Critical Control Point (HACCP) and Supplier Quality Management<br />

System (SQMS) programmes ensure compliance with legislation. These systems trace<br />

food produce ‘from farm to fork’ and ensure quality, hygiene and food safety at every<br />

level.<br />

4.3.4. Promotion<br />

McDonald’s achieved 6 th position on “Best Global Brands 2011” as a result of<br />

continuous promotional activities. The iconic “Golden Arches” (Appendix 4) are used<br />

in promotions globally. The “i’m lovin’ it” campaign, launched in 2003 used celebrity<br />

endorsement to increase their appeal to younger consumers. Justin Timberlake was<br />

used for vocals and the campaign was launched in 86 English-speaking countries<br />

(Appendix 5) and was adapted for non-English speaking countries.<br />

Recently, the “what we’re made of” campaign increased transparency and was used to<br />

fight against negative publicity regarding ingredients.<br />

4.3.5. People<br />

At McDonald’s, service employees represent the brand at the frontline where<br />

customers have their first interaction with the organisation. It is important that staff<br />

give a good impression and therefore, training is of paramount importance.<br />

Employees undergo rigorous on-the-job training in customer service, food handling<br />

and preparation.<br />

In addition, McDonald’s provides opportunities for managers and would-be<br />

franchisees to develop and hone their management skills through a dedicated facility –<br />

16


the Hamburger University (HU). HU has campuses worldwide and provides training<br />

for employees to improve their proficiency in managing the restaurant.<br />

McDonald’s aim is to create a vibrant working environment for staff and managers.<br />

This creates a chain effect whereby customers are positively influenced and are more<br />

likely to return. To re-create this chain effect in different markets, the recruitment and<br />

training processes are standardised globally. McDonald’s is always on the look-out<br />

for lively team players who are trained according to guidelines, which provides<br />

Quality, Service, Cleanliness and Value (QSC&V) to every customer that they serve.<br />

4.3.6. Process<br />

As the term ‘fast-food’ suggests, McDonald’s prepares and serves food rapidly. Strict<br />

guidelines and regulations are followed in food preparation to ensure high standards<br />

of hygiene and food safety. Customers can usually see the kitchen while being served,<br />

allowing transparency, so customers can eat in confidence. <strong>Food</strong> is mass-cooked and<br />

hot-held until service. However, due to the continual stream of customers, it does not<br />

deteriorate before consumption.<br />

To maintain its foothold as market leader, McDonald’s maintains a high degree of<br />

process standardisation across all outlets to increase efficiency. This ensures that they<br />

have high standards of hygiene and food safety in all outlets.<br />

4.3.7. Physical Evidence<br />

McDonald's has a homogenous ‘look’ across their outlets from décor to staff uniform.<br />

Their global re-branding strategy furthers standardisation, allowing consumers to<br />

experience familiarity despite visiting outlets in different countries. In family-oriented<br />

areas, there are indoor playgrounds to satisfy customers. The company ensures that all<br />

franchisees comply with regulation regarding hygiene to maintain their reputation for<br />

17


cleanliness. Staff training is standardised globally to ensure customers are treated<br />

consistently.<br />

4.4. International Branding<br />

McDonald’s relies heavily on brand recognition. The company’s ‘Golden Arches’ are an<br />

iconic aspect of American culture, which has been successfully exported to the rest of the<br />

world. During the mid 2000’s, McDonald’s began a global re-vamp of their image<br />

(Bloomberg Business Week, 2006) following bad publicity associated with the company<br />

(Kline et al., 2007). The aim of re-branding was to create a sleeker and ‘friendlier’ look,<br />

appealing to younger generations. However, the brand continues to face criticism across<br />

the globe regarding their unhealthy menu, unfair competition and trade practices<br />

(Datamonitor, 2011).<br />

18


4.5. McDonald’s Internal and External <strong>Analysis</strong><br />

The following framework identifies McDonald’s internal strengths and weaknesses along<br />

with external opportunities and threats.<br />

Favourable Unfavourable<br />

Internal � Large saturated target<br />

4.5.1. Internal <strong>Analysis</strong><br />

McDonald’s boasts a brand value of $35,593 million (2011), a 6% increase from the<br />

previous year (Interbrand, 2011) and their ‘Golden Arches’ is said to be the “most<br />

recognized symbol in the world” (Business Insider, 2010). Between 2007-2010, their<br />

profit margin increased from 3.74% to 13.27% in the UK (Datamonitor, 2010),<br />

suggesting a significant improvement in efficiency. The successful introduction of<br />

new menu choices, coffees and smoothies increases differentiation, improving<br />

customer loyalty.<br />

audience<br />

� Strong global brand<br />

� Large product offering<br />

� Strong ability to adapt<br />

External � Franchise opportunities<br />

� Increase in Out-of-Home<br />

eating<br />

� Growth of hot drink market<br />

� High staff turnover<br />

� No prime location<br />

� Saturation in 119 countries<br />

� Health trends in eating<br />

� Replacements for fast-food<br />

� Financial Crisis/Inflation<br />

19


McDonald’s has high brand reliance and if damaged by negative publicity, it could<br />

ruin credibility and customer loyalty could deteriorate. Additionally, McDonald’s<br />

high staff turnover rate of 130% results in high recruitment and training costs<br />

(Schmeltzer, 2007).<br />

4.5.2. External <strong>Analysis</strong><br />

McDonald’s has many opportunities in the external environment due to an increase in<br />

eating out, and growth of the hot drinks market. During the recession, McDonald’s<br />

Informal Eating Out (IEO) market share increased to a record high of 11.5% and a<br />

quarter of surveyed teenagers said they purchase fast-food at least once a week<br />

(Mintel, 2011).<br />

The global hot drink market generated $68 billion in revenues in 2009 and is<br />

predicted to grow to $81.4 billion by 2014, presenting McCafe, McDonald’s<br />

speciality coffee kiosk an opportunity to thrive. Until recently, McCafe has been a<br />

product development within existing outlets; however, McDonald’s could launch a<br />

new franchise scheme for McCafe as an independent brand with its own outlets in this<br />

rapidly growing market.<br />

McDonald’s market share increased during the 2008 recession, but high inflation rates<br />

still affect global daily dealings (Mintel, 2011). Competition from daily-deals<br />

websites such as Groupon, reduces the cost of table-service restaurants, often to the<br />

same price-point as QSRs. This is a substantial threat to McDonald’s as it brings more<br />

players into direct competition.<br />

Health consciousness trends are a global threat, as McDonald’s has been traditionally<br />

perceived as offering only fatty food. Recently, some healthier options have been<br />

introduced, i.e. salads and wraps, in efforts to shift their position in the consumer eye.<br />

However, the brand is still perceived as ‘unhealthy’ and this poses a continual threat.<br />

20


McDonald’s has been highly criticised for high-calorie menu, and it could have a<br />

negative impact over time if health and wellness trends continue (Datamonitor, 2011).<br />

4.6. Strategic and Tactical Recommendations for McDonald’s<br />

The following table outlines the strategic and tactical recommendations for the future<br />

success:<br />

Short-term (6 months- 1 year) Long-term (1- 5 Years)<br />

Continue expansion of their franchises in<br />

developing markets with growing middle<br />

classes<br />

Adapting the menus to the cultural and<br />

regional taste (brazil pastry, India – cheese,<br />

size adaptation)- health trends<br />

Loyalty program- point system leading to<br />

free item system, discount<br />

Increase recycling and environmental<br />

friendly material and packaging completely<br />

Increase charity work such as health<br />

conscious charities as more regulation for<br />

advertising appears<br />

Enter health conscious food market with<br />

another brand<br />

21


4.6.1. Short Term Recommendations (6 months – 1 year)<br />

Further expansion in emerging markets with growing middle classes provides growth<br />

opportunities since many western markets are saturated.<br />

Cultural taste is already a focus for McDonald’s and emerging economies offer<br />

multiple opportunities for product adaptation. For example, pastry options in Brazil<br />

and cheese products in India could increase sales. Further adaptation of meal size and<br />

price will cater for a larger market demographic.<br />

A loyalty scheme can be used to increase purchase frequency. This could be initiated<br />

through student discounts, or a points-based scheme offering a free item after multiple<br />

purchases.<br />

4.6.2. Long-Term Recommendations (1 – 5 years)<br />

With growing environmental awareness, environmentally-friendly and ethically-<br />

sourced packaging could be used to further differentiate McDonald’s from<br />

competitors.<br />

Although McDonald’s supports various charities including the Ronald McDonald<br />

House Charities, further emphasis on charitable work could positively alter customers’<br />

perception of the brand, especially since their product offering is often seen as a<br />

barrier to “good health”.<br />

Entering the health-conscious fast-food market under the guise of a different brand<br />

would secure a larger market share and diversify their business, spreading the risk of<br />

failure. For example, Coca-Cola launched the health-conscious Vitamin Water brand,<br />

which is perceived very differently to Coca-Cola itself.<br />

22


5. Concluding Statement<br />

The fast-food industry was identified as a low-cost, high-turnover industry with strong<br />

competitive rivalry. After a thorough industry analysis, McDonald’s was identified as<br />

the market leader and was selected as a key player on which to carry out an evaluation<br />

regarding their international marketing activities. Upon recognition of both internal<br />

and external factors, supported recommendations were formed to enhance<br />

McDonald’s’ competitive position in the international market.<br />

23


6. Appendices<br />

6.1. Appendix 1<br />

McDonald’s is the 9 th most ‘Liked’ brand on Facebook:<br />

(www.cnbc.com)<br />

24


6.2. Appendix 2<br />

Map depicting McDonald’s global presence:<br />

25


6.3. Appendix 3<br />

Examples of franchisee adaptation catering for local tastes, cultural differences and social<br />

norms:<br />

26


6.4. Appendix 4<br />

Iconic ‘Golden Arches’ logo used globally in all promotional material:<br />

(www.mcdonalds.com)<br />

27


6.5. Appendix 5<br />

Table showing countries in which the McDonald’s “I’m lovin’ it” campaign was<br />

standardised:<br />

i’m lovin’ it English<br />

American Samoa, Andorra, Australia, Austria,<br />

Azerbaijan, The Bahamas, Bahrain, Belarus, Belgium,<br />

Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada, China, Croatia, Cyprus,<br />

Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominican Republic,<br />

Estonia, Fiji, Finland, France, Georgia, Gibraltar,<br />

Greece, Guam, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, India,<br />

Indonesia, Ireland, Isle of Man, Israel, Italy, Japan,<br />

Jordan, Kazakstan, Kuwait, Latvia, Lebanon,<br />

Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macau,<br />

Macedonia, Malaysia, Mauritius, Mexico, Moldova,<br />

Monaco, Montenegro, Morocco, Netherlands, New<br />

Caledonia, New Zealand, Northern Mariana Islands,<br />

Norway, Oman, Pakistan, Poland, Portugal, Qatar,<br />

Romania, Russia, Samoa, San Marino, Serbia,<br />

Singapore, Sint Maarten, Slovakia, Slovenia, South<br />

Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sri Lanka, Suriname,<br />

Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, United Arab<br />

Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, Yemen<br />

28


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30


Journals<br />

Kilne, S and Botterill, J (2007), “From McLibel to McLettuce: childhood, spin and rebranding”,<br />

Society and Business Review, Vol. 2, No. 1<br />

Shona Kerfoot, Barry Davies, Philippa Ward (2003) "Visual merchandising and the creation<br />

of discernible retail brands", International Journal of Retail & Distribution Management, Vol.<br />

31 Issue: 3, pp.143 - 152<br />

Text books<br />

Brown, A and Harwood, S (2010), “International Business: Globalisation and Trade”.<br />

Pearson Custom Publications<br />

Muhlbacher, Dahringer and Leihs (1999) “International Marketing”. London: Thomson<br />

Business Press. Pg: 1-201<br />

31

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